Philosophizing the Filipino Soul: USAPP Summit Champions Identity, Ethics, and Cultural Reflection

Hosted by Bohol Island State University, the 4th USAPP Summit gathered over 90 scholars, educators, and students at the Metro Centre Hotel, Tagbilaran City, from June 6–8, 2025, to explore Filipino philosophy rooted in identity, ethics, and cultural memory. A key highlight was the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between BISU and the Philosophical Association of the Visayas and Mindanao, strengthening collaboration in regional philosophical research.

Series of Plenary lectures by Dr. Michael Roland Hernandez, Dr. Bernabe M. Mijares Jr., Dr. Blaise Joseph R. Ringor, and Dr. Ruby Christine M. Suazo addressed themes of decolonization, Filipino worldview, ontological persistence, and ethical identity. The breakout sessions tackled topics on indigenous spirituality, disinformation, feminist and queer critique, AI in pop culture, and Filipino metaphysics. Best Paper Awards were given to Mr. Sean Ethan A. Capisanan, Rev. Fr. Tirso E. Gliponeo, and Mr. Eugene R. De Guzman. The summit concluded with a Mass, PHAVISMINDA officer elections, and a fellowship lunch affirming philosophy’s role in nation-building.